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SAFETY ACT – LOI SUR LA SÉCURITÉ
The Commissioner, on the recommendation of the Minister, under section 25 of the Safety
Act and every enabling power, makes the annexed Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.
Sur la recommandation du ministre, en vertu de l’article 25 de la Loi sur la sécurité et de
tout pouvoir habilitant, la commissaire prend le Règlement sur la santé et la sécurité au travail
ci-après.
Dated,
Fait le ………………………….…… 2016.
...................................................
Nellie T. Kusugak, O. Nu.
ᑲᒥᓴᓇᖓ ᓄᓇᕗᑦ
Commissioner of Nunavut
Commissaire du Nunavut
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INTERPRETATION
1. In these regulations,
"accident causing serious bodily injury" means an accident at a work site that
(a) causes or could reasonably be expected to cause the death of an individual,
or
(b) requires an individual to be admitted to a hospital as an in-patient for a
period of 24 hours or more; (accident causant des lésions corporelles
graves)
"air-purifying respirator" means a respirator that removes airborne contaminants from the air
inhaled by a worker; (appareil respiratoire à ventilation assistée)
"approved" means
(a) approved by an agency acceptable to the Chief Safety Officer for use
under the conditions prescribed by the agency,
(b) approved conditionally or otherwise by a certificate of the Chief Safety
Officer, or
(c) approved by the Chief Safety Officer in a code of practice approved and
issued under subsection 18(3) of the Act; (approuvé)
"atmosphere-supplying respirator" means a respirator that delivers clean breathing air to a
worker from a compressor or a cylinder, an SCBA, whether closed or open circuit, or a
combination of SCBA and supplied air; (appareil respiratoire à alimentation d'air)
"borehole" means a mechanically drilled hole in the ground; (trou de forage)
"building shaft" means a continuous vertical space substantially enclosed on all sides that
extends for two or more floors, such as an elevator shaft, a ventilation shaft, a stairwell or a
service shaft; (cage de bâtiment)
"competent" means in respect of a function, task or duty, possessing the knowledge, experience
and training to perform the function, task or duty; (compétent)
"conductor" includes a wire, cable or other metal component installed for the purpose of
conveying electric current from one piece of equipment to another or to ground; (conducteur)
"confined space" means an enclosed or partially enclosed space, that is not designed or intended
for continuous human occupancy, with a restricted means of entry or exit; (espace restreint)
"connecting linkage" means a lanyard, safety hook, cable or connector between a personal fall
arrest system device and a D-ring on a worker’s full-body harness; (mécanisme de connexion)
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"construction" means the erection, alteration, renovation, repair, dismantlement, demolition,
structural maintenance or painting of a structure, land clearing, earthmoving, grading,
excavating, trenching, digging, boring, drilling, blasting and concreting; (construction)
"controlled product" means a product, material or substance specified by regulations made under
paragraph 15(1)(a) of the Hazardous Products Act (Canada) to be included in any of the classes
listed in Schedule II of that Act; (produit contrôlé)
"dangerous occurrence" means an occurrence that does not result in, but could have resulted in
an accident causing serious bodily injury, such as
(a) structural failure or collapse of
(i) a structure, scaffold, temporary falsework or concrete formwork,
or
(ii) a tunnel, caisson, coffer dam, trench, excavated shaft or
excavation,
(b) failure of a crane or hoist or the overturning of a crane or powered mobile
equipment,
(c) accidental contact with an energized conductor,
(d) bursting of a grinding wheel,
(e) uncontrolled spill or escape of a toxic, corrosive or explosive substance,
(f) premature or accidental detonation of explosives,
(g) failure of an elevated or suspended platform, or
(h) failure of an atmosphere-supplying respirator; (événement dangereux)
"dBA" means the sound pressure level in decibels measured on the A scale of a sound level
meter; (dBA)
"designated signaller" means a worker designated under paragraph 138(1)(a) to give signals;
(signaleur désigné)
"emergency medical technician" or "EMT" means an individual who
(a) holds not less than a valid Level 2 qualification,
(b) has completed an approved course of emergency medical technologist
training,
(c) possesses an approved amount of experience as an emergency medical
technician, and
(d) is licensed by an approved agency; (technicien en soins médicaux
d’urgence)
"equipment" means any mechanical or non-mechanical article or device, such as a machine, tool,
appliance, apparatus, implement, service or utility, other than personal property owned by a
person unless that property is used in the carrying on of any work; (équipement)
"escape respirator" means an atmosphere-supplying respirator or an air-purifying respirator that
is designed to be used by a worker only for escape purposes; (appareil respiratoire
d’évacuation)
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"excavated shaft" means a passage dug into the ground, the longest dimension of which exceeds
1.5 m and of which the acute angle between the axis of the longest dimension and the vertical is
less than 45º; (puits)
"excavation" means any dug out area of ground other than a trench, tunnel or excavated shaft;
(excavation)
"first aid" means immediate assistance given in case of injury until medical aid has been
obtained; (premiers soins)
"first aid attendant" means a holder of a valid
(a) first aid qualification,
(b) licence or approval as an emergency medical technician, or
(c) licence, certificate or other qualification that, in the opinion of the Chief
Safety Officer, is equivalent or superior to a qualification referred to in
paragraph (a), or a licence or approval referred to in paragraph (b);
(secouriste)
"first aid qualification" means a qualification in first aid issued by an approved agency to an
individual who has followed a course of instruction set out in
(a) Schedule A for a Level 1 qualification, or
(b) Schedule B for a Level 2 qualification;
(qualification en premiers soins)
"forklift" means a self-propelled machine that has a power operated upright, angled or telescopic
lifting device that can raise and lower a load for the purpose of transporting or stacking; (chariot
élévateur)
"full-body harness" means a safety device that is capable of suspending a worker without causing
the worker to bend at the waist, and consists of straps that pass over the worker’s shoulders and
around the worker’s legs, an upper dorsal suspension assembly and integral hardware; (harnais
de sécurité complet)
"hand tool" means hand-held equipment that depends on the energy of the worker for its direct
effect and that does not have a pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or chemical energy source for its
operation; (outil à main)
"harmful" means known to cause harm or injury; (nocif) ou (néfaste)
"hazardous" means likely to cause harm or injury in certain circumstances; (dangereux)
"hazardous substance" means a hazardous product as defined in section 322 or another product,
material or substance that is hazardous; (substance dangereuse)
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"HEPA filter" means a high efficiency particulate aerosol filter that is not less than 99.97%
efficient in collecting a 0.3 μm aerosol; (filtre HEPA)
"high hazard work" means a work activity described in Schedule C; (travail très dangereux)
"highway" means a highway as defined in section 1 of the Motor Vehicles Act; (route)
"hoist" means a machine that consists of a raising and lowering mechanism; (monte-charge)
"injury" includes any disease and any impairment of the physical or mental condition of an
individual; (blessure)
"instruct" means, in respect of an instruction to a worker, to give information and direction to the
worker with respect to a particular subject matter; (version anglaise seulement)
"isolated work site" means a work site
(a) that is more than two hours’ travel time from a hospital or medical facility
under normal travel conditions using available means of surface
transportation, or
(b) for which transport by aircraft is the normal mode of transport; (lieu de
travail isolé)
"Level 1 qualification" means a certificate that
(a) is issued by an approved agency indicating the successful completion of a
first aid training course and a cardiopulmonary resuscitation training
course that meet the minimum requirements for course duration and
content set out in Schedule A, and
(b) qualifies the holder to perform the services set out in Schedule D;
(qualification de niveau 1)
"Level 2 qualification" means a certificate that
(a) is issued by an approved agency indicating the successful completion of a
first aid training course and a cardiopulmonary training course that meet
the minimum requirements for course duration and content set out in
Schedule B, and
(b) qualifies the holder to perform the services set out in Schedule E;
(qualification de niveau 2)
"lifeline" means a length of rope or strap that is attached to a safe point of anchorage at one end
of the rope or strap or, in the case of a horizontal lifeline, at both ends of the rope or strap, to
provide support and a guide for a personal fall arrest system or a lowering device that provides a
means of safely lowering a worker from a height; (cordage de sécurité)
"locked out" means, in respect of equipment or a system, to have
(a) isolated all energy sources and dissipated residual energy from the
equipment or system, and
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(b) secured the isolation and dissipation by a device that is operated by a key
or other process; (verrouillé)
"maintained" means kept in an effective and safe functioning condition by regular examination,
testing and servicing or repair; (entretenu)
"manufacturer’s specifications" means
(a) the written specifications, instructions or recommendations provided by
the manufacturer of equipment or supplies that describe how the
equipment or supplies are to be constructed, erected, installed, assembled,
examined, inspected, started, operated, used, handled, stored, stopped,
calibrated, adjusted, maintained, repaired or dismantled, or
(b) an instruction, maintenance or operating manual provided by the
manufacturer of equipment or supplies; (indications techniques du
fabricant)
"medical professional" means an individual who is
(a) a medical practitioner as defined in section 1 of the Medical Profession
Act, or
(b) a nurse practitioner, registered nurse or temporary certificate holder as
defined in section 1 of the Nursing Act; (professionnel de la santé)
"personal fall arrest system" means personal protective equipment that provides a means of
safely arresting the fall of a worker and that, subsequent to the arrest of the fall, by itself does not
permit the further release or lowering of the worker; (système antichute personnel)
"personal protective equipment" means any clothing, device or other article that is intended to be
worn or used by a worker to prevent injury or to facilitate rescue; (équipement de protection
individuelle)
"personnel lifting unit" means a work platform, suspended by rigging from a hoist or crane as
defined in section 205, that is used to position a worker at an elevated work site; (unité de levage
du personnel)
"plant" includes a premises, site, land, water, structure, fixture or equipment used in the carrying
on of an employment, business, calling or pursuit; (établissement)
"powered mobile equipment" means a self-propelled machine or combination of machines, such
as a prime mover, that is designed to manipulate or move materials or to provide a work platform
for a worker; (materiel mobile motorisé)
"professional engineer" means
(a) a professional engineer as defined in subsection 1(1) of the Engineers and
Geoscientists Act, or
(b) an individual who has a substantially similar standing to a professional
engineer under an enactment of a jurisdiction outside Nunavut; (ingénieur)
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"qualified individual" means an individual who
(a) possesses a recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, and
(b) has demonstrated, by knowledge, training and experience, an ability to
deal with problems related to a particular subject matter or work;
(personne compétente)
"representative" means an occupational health and safety representative; (représentant)
"respiratory device" means a device such as an atmosphere-supplying respirator, an air-purifying
respirator or an escape respirator that is designed to protect a wearer from inhaling a hazardous
atmosphere; (appareil respiratoire)
"safeguard" means equipment other than personal protective equipment that is designed to
protect the safety of a worker, such as a guard, shield, wire mesh, guardrail, gate, barrier, safety
net, handrail or other similar equipment; (dispositif de protection)
"SCBA" means self-contained breathing apparatus; (ARA)
"standard atmospheric pressure" means atmospheric pressure of 101.325 kPa or 1 atm; (pression
atmosphérique standard)
"supervisor" means an individual who is authorized by an employer to oversee or direct workers;
(superviseur)
"train" means
(a) to give information and explanation to a worker with respect to a
particular subject matter, and
(b) to require a practical demonstration that the worker has acquired
knowledge or skill related to the subject matter; (former)
"trench" means an elongated dug out area of land with a depth that exceeds its width at the
bottom; (tranchée)
"tunnel" means an underground passage that has an incline of not more than 45º from the
horizontal; (tunnel)
"vehicle" means a machine in, on or by which an individual or thing could be transported.
(véhicule)
APPLICATION
2. These regulations do not apply to work in respect of
(a) a mine, as defined in section 1 of the Mine Health and Safety Act; or
(b) the exploration, production and conservation of oil and gas resources.
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PART 1
PRELIMINARY MATTERS
Giving Notice to Chief Safety Officer
3. (1) Where these regulations require a notice to be given to the Chief Safety Officer, the
notice must be in a form approved by the Chief Safety Officer.
(2) Notice is deemed to have been given under subsection (1) when the notice is actually
received by the Chief Safety Officer.
(3) In the case of a notice required by subsection 7(1) or (2), an employer shall give
notice by telephoning a safety officer and, in addition, give notice in the manner set out in
subsection (1).
Generality of Duties Not Limited
4. (1) A specific duty imposed by these regulations does not limit the generality of any other
duty imposed by the Act or other regulations made under the Act.
(2) A provision of these regulations that prohibits a worker from carrying out a specified
action applies, with any necessary modification, to an employer.
(3) A provision of these regulations that requires an employer to ensure that a worker
carries out or refrains from carrying out a specified action is deemed to require an employer to
carry out or refrain from carrying out that action.
(4) Where a provision of these regulations imposes a duty or requirement on more than
one person, the duty or requirement is meant to be imposed primarily on the person with the
greatest degree of control over the matters that are the subject of the duty or requirement.
(5) Despite subsection (4) but subject to subsection (7), if the person with the greatest
degree of control fails to comply with a provision described in subsection (4), the other persons
are not relieved of the obligation to comply with the provision if it is possible for them to
comply, and they shall comply with the provision.
(6) If the person with the greatest degree of control complies with a provision described
in subsection (4), the other persons are relieved of the obligation to comply with the provision
(a) only for the time in which the person with the greatest degree of control is
in compliance with the provision;
(b) only if simultaneous compliance by more than one person would result in
unnecessary duplication of effort and expense; and
(c) only if the health and safety of workers is not endangered by compliance
by only one person.
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(7) If the person with the greatest degree of control fails to comply with a provision
described in subsection (4) but one of the other persons complies with the provision, the other
persons, if any, to whom the provision applies, are relieved of the obligation to comply with the
provision in the circumstances set out in paragraphs (6)(a) to (c), with any necessary
modification.
(8) If a provision of these regulations imposes a duty or requirement on a person to
ensure that another person carries out or refrains from carrying out a specified action, the person
on whom the duty or requirement is placed has complied with the provision if that person
establishes that he or she took all reasonably practicable steps to ensure that the other person
carried out or refrained from carrying out the specified action.
Codes of Practice
5. The Chief Safety Officer may consult with industry and others prior to approving and
issuing a code of practice under subsection 18(3) of the Act.
Certification by Professional Engineer
6. If a certification by a professional engineer is required by these regulations, the
certification must be in writing and must bear the official stamp or seal of the engineer.
PART 2
REPORTING
New Operations
7. (1) An employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible, give notice to the Chief Safety
Officer of an intention to
(a) begin work at a construction site or a manufacturing or processing plant
where 20 or more workers are to work for six months or more;
(b) dig an excavation, a trench or an excavated shaft
(i) more than 5 m deep, and
(ii) that a worker will be required or permitted to enter; or
(c) dig a tunnel that a worker will be required or permitted to enter.
(2) Subject to subsection (3), an employer shall, not less than 30 days before high hazard
work begins, give notice to the Chief Safety Officer of an intention to begin that work.
(3) If an employer cannot give the notice in the time required under subsection (2), the
employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible,
(a) give notice to the Chief Safety Officer of an intention to begin that work;
and
(b) provide an explanation to the Chief Safety Officer why the notice was not
given in the time required under subsection (2).
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(4) A notice required by subsection (1) or (2) or paragraph (3)(a) must include
(a) the name of the employer;
(b) the mailing address of the employer;
(c) the telephone number and facsimile number of the employer;
(d) the location of the intended work site;
(e) the nature of the activity to be undertaken at the intended work site;
(f) the number of workers that are going to work at the intended work site;
and
(g) the estimated starting date and expected duration of the activity.
Accidents Causing Serious Bodily Injury
8. (1) An employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible, give notice to the Chief Safety
Officer of an accident causing serious bodily injury.
(2) A notice given under subsection (1) must include
(a) the name of each injured or deceased individual;
(b) the name of the employer of each injured or deceased worker;
(c) the date, time and location of the accident;
(d) the circumstances of the accident;
(e) the apparent injuries; and
(f) the name, telephone number and facsimile number of the employer or an
individual designated by the employer to be contacted for additional
information.
(3) An employer shall provide a copy of the notice required by subsection (1), without
names of the injured or deceased individuals, to the Committee or representative.
Dangerous Occurrences
9. (1) An employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible, give notice to the Chief Safety
Officer of a dangerous occurrence that takes place at a work site, whether or not a worker
sustains injury.
(2) The notice given under subsection (1) must include
(a) the name of each employer, principal contractor and owner at the work
site;
(b) the date, time and location of the dangerous occurrence;
(c) the circumstances related to the dangerous occurrence; and
(d) the name, telephone number and facsimile number of the employer or a
person designated by the employer to be contacted for additional
information.
(3) An employer shall provide a copy of the notice required by subsection (1), without the
names of the workers involved, to the Committee or representative.
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Medical Information
10. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a person who acquires information of a personal medical
nature with respect to a worker shall not disclose that information unless the disclosure is
(a) to the worker;
(b) with the informed consent of the worker, to another person; or
(c) otherwise required by law.
(2) A medical professional who attends or treats a worker who is suffering from or is
believed to be suffering from a medical condition that is listed in Schedule F and is related to the
worker’s present or past work shall, as soon as is reasonably possible, inform the Chief Safety
Officer of
(a) the medical condition from which the worker is suffering or is believed to
be suffering; and
(b) the name and address of the most recent work site where exposure related
to the medical condition is believed to have occurred.
Annual Statistical Report
11. An employer shall provide to the Chief Safety Officer, or to a person or organization that
the Chief Safety Officer may designate, a report setting out details of person hours worked and
work-related injuries during the preceding year that occurred in Nunavut.
PART 3
GENERAL DUTIES
General Duties of Employers
12. An employer shall, in respect of a work site,
(a) provide and maintain systems of work and working environments that
ensure, as far as is reasonably possible, the health and safety of workers;
(b) arrange for the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and
substances in a manner that protects the health and safety of workers;
(c) provide information, instruction, training and supervision that is necessary
to protect the health and safety of workers; and
(d) provide and maintain a safe means of entrance to and exit from the work
site.
General Duties of Workers
13. A worker shall, in respect of a work site,
(a) use safeguards, safety equipment and personal protective equipment
required by these regulations; and
(b) follow safe work practices and procedures required by or developed under
these regulations.
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Young Persons
14. (1) An employer shall ensure that an individual under 16 years of age is not required or
permitted to work
(a) on a construction site;
(b) in a production process at a pulp mill, saw mill or woodworking
establishment;
(c) in a production process at a smelter, foundry, refinery or metal processing
or fabricating operation;
(d) in a confined space;
(e) in a forestry or logging operation;
(f) as an operator of powered mobile equipment, a crane or a hoist;
(g) where exposure to a chemical or biological substance is likely to endanger
the health or safety of the individual; or
(h) in power line construction or maintenance.
(2) An employer shall ensure that an individual under 18 years of age is not required or
permitted to work
(a) as an occupational worker as defined in section 339;
(b) in an asbestos process as defined in section 364;
(c) in a silica process as defined in section 380; or
(d) in an activity requiring the use of an atmosphere-supplying respirator.
Duty of Principal Contractor to Inform
15. The principal contractor or, if there is no principal contractor, an employer, shall give
notice in writing to each other employer and worker at a work site, setting out
(a) the name of the individual who is supervising the work on behalf of the
principal contractor or employer;
(b) emergency facilities available for use by workers;
(c) if a Committee is established under section 37, the existence of the
Committee at the work site and the means to contact the Committee; and
(d) if a representative is designated under section 39, the identity of the
representative at the work site and the means to contact him or her.
Supervision of Work
16. (1) An employer shall ensure that, at a work site,
(a) work is sufficiently and competently supervised;
(b) supervisors have sufficient knowledge of the following:
(i) any occupational health and safety program applicable to workers
supervised at the work site,
(ii) the safe handling, use, storage, production and disposal of
hazardous substances,
(iii) the need for, and safe use of, personal protective equipment,
(iv) emergency procedures required by these regulations,
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(v) any other matters that are necessary to ensure the health and safety
of workers;
(c) supervisors have completed an approved regulatory familiarization
program; and
(d) supervisors comply with the Act and these regulations.
(2) A supervisor shall ensure that workers comply with the Act and these regulations as
they apply to the work site.
Duty to Inform Workers
17. An employer shall ensure that workers
(a) are informed of the provisions of the Act and these regulations as they
apply to the work site; and
(b) comply with the Act and these regulations.
Training of Workers
18. (1) An employer shall ensure that a worker is trained in matters necessary to protect the
health and safety of workers at a work site when
(a) the worker begins work at the work site; and
(b) the worker is moved from one work activity or work site to another that
differs from the old work site with respect to hazards, equipment, facilities
or procedures.
(2) The training required by subsection (1) must include
(a) procedures to be taken in the event of a fire or other emergency;
(b) the location of first aid facilities;
(c) identification of prohibited or restricted areas;
(d) precautions to be taken for the protection of workers from hazardous
substances;
(e) procedures, plans, policies and programs that apply to work at the work
site; and
(f) any other matters that are necessary to ensure the health and safety of
workers at the work site.
(3) An employer shall ensure that time spent by a worker in the training required by
subsection (1) is credited to the worker as time at work, and that he or she does not lose pay or
benefits with respect to that time.
(4) An employer shall ensure that a worker is not required or permitted to work unless he
or she
(a) is a competent worker; or
(b) is under close and competent supervision.
Workers' Contacts with Safety Officers
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19. (1) During an inspection or inquiry by a safety officer at a work site, an employer shall
allow any one of the following to accompany the safety officer:
(a) a member of the Committee who, under paragraph 38(a) represents
workers or, if such a member is not available, a worker designated by the
Committee to represent workers;
(b) the representative or, if he or she is not available, a worker designated by
the representative to represent workers;
(c) if there is no Committee member or representative available, a worker
designated by the trade union representing workers or if there is no trade
union representing workers, a worker designated by a safety officer.
(2) An employer shall allow any worker to consult with a safety officer during an
inspection or inquiry at a work site.
(3) An employer shall ensure that the time a worker consults with or accompanies a
safety officer during an inspection or inquiry is credited as time at work, and that he or she does
not lose pay or benefits.
Biological Monitoring
20. (1) In this section, "biological monitoring" means measuring, through the assessment of
biological specimens collected from a worker, the worker’s total exposure to a hazardous
substance present at a work site. (contrôle biologique)
(2) If a worker is the subject of biological monitoring, an employer shall ensure that
(a) the worker is informed of the purposes and the results of the biological
monitoring;
(b) at the worker’s request, the detailed results of the biological monitoring
are made available to a medical professional, or individual of similar
standing under an enactment of a jurisdiction outside Nunavut, who is
specified by the worker; and
(c) the aggregate results of the biological monitoring are given to the
Committee or representative.
(3) The results of biological monitoring carried out under subsection (2) are deemed to be
information of a personal medical nature under subsection 10(1).
Occupational Health and Safety Program
21. (1) An employer shall provide an occupational health and safety program under this
section if
(a) there are 20 or more workers who work at the work site; or
(b) the employer is so directed by the Chief Safety Officer.
(2) An occupational health and safety program for a work site must include
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(a) a statement of the employer’s policy with respect to the protection and
maintenance of the health and safety of workers;
(b) an identification of hazards that could endanger workers at the work site,
through a hazard recognition program;
(c) measures, including procedures to respond to an emergency, that will be
taken to reduce, eliminate and control the hazards identified under
paragraph (b);
(d) an identification of internal and external resources, including personnel
and equipment, that could be required to respond to an emergency;
(e) a statement of the responsibilities of the employer, the supervisors and the
workers;
(f) a schedule for the regular inspection of the work site and inspection of
work processes and procedures;
(g) a plan for the control of hazardous substances handled, used, stored,
produced or disposed of at the work site and, if appropriate, the
monitoring of the work environment;
(h) a plan for training workers and supervisors in safe work practices and
procedures, including procedures, plans, policies or programs that the
employer is required to develop;
(i) a procedure for the investigation of refusals to work under section 13 of
the Act;
(j) a strategy for worker participation in occupational health and safety
activities, including audit inspections and investigations of refusals to
work under section 13 of the Act; and
(k) a procedure to review and, if necessary, revise the occupational health and
safety program not less than once every three years or whenever there is a
change of circumstances that could affect the health or safety of workers.
(3) An occupational health and safety program must be implemented and updated in
consultation with
(a) the Committee or representative; and
(b) the workers.
(4) An occupational health and safety program required under this section must be in
writing and made available to the workers.
Examination of Plant
22. (1) An employer shall arrange for the regular examination of a plant to ensure that, to the
extent that is reasonably possible, the plant is capable of
(a) withstanding the stress likely to be imposed on it; and
(b) safely performing the functions for which the plant is used.
(2) An employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible, correct an unsafe condition
found in a plant and take reasonable steps, until the unsafe condition is corrected, to protect the
health and safety of workers who could be endangered.
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Identifying Mark of Approved Equipment
23. (1) This section applies in respect of equipment and personal protective equipment that is
required by these regulations to be approved by an agency.
(2) An employer or supplier shall ensure that the approval of equipment and personal
protective equipment by an agency is evidenced by a seal, stamp, logo or similar identifying
mark of the agency indicating such approval, affixed on
(a) the equipment or personal protective equipment; or
(b) the packaging accompanying the equipment or personal protective
equipment.
Maintenance and Repair of Equipment
24. (1) An employer shall ensure that equipment is maintained at intervals that are sufficient
to ensure the safe functioning of the equipment.
(2) If a defect is found in equipment, an employer shall ensure that, as soon as is
reasonably possible,
(a) steps are taken, until the defect is corrected, to protect the health and
safety of workers who could be endangered; and
(b) the defect is corrected by a competent worker or the equipment is
replaced.
(3) A worker who knows or has reason to believe that equipment under his or her control
is in an unsafe condition shall, as soon as is reasonably possible,
(a) report the condition of the equipment to the employer; and
(b) repair the equipment, if the worker is authorized and competent to do so,
or replace the equipment or remove the equipment from service.
Boilers and Pressure Vessels
25. An employer shall ensure that boilers or pressure vessels used at a work site are properly
constructed and maintained, even if there is no requirement to inspect or register them under the
Boilers and Pressure Vessels Act.
Prohibited Use of Compressed Air
26. An employer shall ensure that no compressed air is directed towards a worker for
(a) the purpose of cleaning clothing or personal protective equipment; or
(b) any other purpose, if the use of compressed air could cause dispersion into
the air of contaminants that could be harmful to workers.
Inspection of Work Sites
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27. (1) An employer shall enable members of the Committee or a representative to inspect a
work site at reasonable intervals determined by the Committee and employer or by the
representative and employer.
(2) On written notice by the Committee or representative of an unsafe condition or a
contravention of the Act or these regulations, the employer shall, as soon as is reasonably
possible,
(a) take steps, until the unsafe condition is corrected or the contravention is
remedied, to protect the health and safety of workers who could be
endangered;
(b) take suitable action to correct the unsafe condition or remedy the
contravention; and
(c) inform the Committee or representative in writing
(i) of the steps and action the employer has taken or will take under
paragraphs (a) and (b), or
(ii) if the employer has not taken steps and action under paragraphs (a)
and (b), the reasons for not taking steps or action.
Investigation of Certain Accidents
28. (1) Subject to section 29, an employer shall ensure that an accident causing serious bodily
injury or a dangerous occurrence is investigated as soon as is reasonably possible
(a) by the Committee and employer or by the representative and the
employer; or
(b) if no Committee or representative is available, by the employer.
(2) After the investigation of an accident causing serious bodily injury or a dangerous
occurrence, an employer shall, in consultation with the Committee or representative or, if no
Committee or representative is available, the workers, prepare a written report that includes
(a) a description of the accident or occurrence;
(b) graphics, photographs, video or other evidence that could assist in
determining the causes of the accident or occurrence;
(c) identification of unsafe conditions, acts, omissions or procedures that
contributed to the accident or occurrence;
(d) an explanation of the causes of the accident or occurrence;
(e) a description of the immediate corrective action taken; and
(f) a description of long-term actions that will be taken to prevent the
happening of a similar accident or dangerous occurrence, or the reasons
for not taking action.
Preserving Scene of Accident Causing Death
29. (1) Unless expressly authorized by statute or by subsection (2), a person shall not, other
than for the purpose of saving life or relieving human suffering, interfere with, destroy, carry
away or alter the position of wreckage, equipment, articles, documents or other things at the
scene of, or connected with, an accident causing a death until a safety officer has completed an
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investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident.
(2) If an accident causing a death occurs and a safety officer is not able to complete an
investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident, the safety officer may, unless
prohibited by statute, grant permission to move wreckage, equipment, articles, documents or
other things at the scene or connected with the accident, to an extent that is necessary to allow
work to proceed, if he or she is satisfied that
(a) graphics, photographs, video or other evidence showing details at the scene
of the accident are made or taken before granting permission; and
(b) a member of the Committee or the representative, if available, has inspected
the site of the accident and agreed that the things may be moved.
Injuries Requiring Medical Treatment
30. An employer shall
(a) report to the Committee or representative any lost-time injury at the work
site that results in a worker receiving medical treatment; and
(b) allow the Committee or representative or, if no Committee or
representative is available, the workers, a reasonable opportunity to review
the lost-time injury report during normal working hours and without loss
of pay or benefits.
Work if Visibility Restricted
31. If visibility in an area at a work site is restricted by smoke, steam or another substance to
the extent that a worker is endangered, an employer shall not require or permit the worker to
work in that area unless the employer provides the worker with an effective means of
communication with another worker who is readily available to provide assistance in an
emergency.
Work on Ice Over Water
32. (1) This section does not apply to
(a) highways built and maintained by the Department of Economic
Development and Transportation; or
(b) roads that are built and maintained to an approved standard.
(2) Before a worker is required or permitted to work or travel on ice that is over water or
over other material into which a worker could sink more than 1 m, an employer shall have the ice
tested to ensure that the ice will support the load that the work or travel will place on the ice.
(3) The requirement of subsection (2) may be waived by the Chief Safety Officer if an
employer or worker satisfies the Chief Safety Officer that other measures have been taken to
eliminate or reduce the risk to the worker should the ice fail to support the load.
Working Alone or at Isolated Work Site
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33. (1) In this section, "work alone" means to work at a work site as the only worker at that
work site, in circumstances where assistance is not readily available in the event of injury, ill
health or emergency. (travailler seul)
(2) If a worker is required or permitted to work alone or at an isolated work site, an
employer, in consultation with the Committee or representative or, if no Committee or
representative is available, the worker and other workers, shall identify the hazards arising from
the conditions and circumstances of that work.
(3) An employer shall take reasonable measures to eliminate or reduce the risks posed by the
hazards identified under subsection (2), including the establishment of an effective
communication system that consists of
(a) radio communication;
(b) phone or cellular phone communication; or
(c) any other means that provides effective communication considering the
risks involved.
Harassment
34. (1) In this section, "harassment" means, subject to subsections (2) and (3), a course of
vexatious comment or conduct at a work site that
(a) is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome; and
(b) constitutes a threat at the work site to the health or safety of a worker.
(harcèlement)
(2) To constitute harassment for the purposes of subsection (1), any one of the following
must have occurred:
(a) repeated conduct, comments, displays, actions or gestures; or
(b) a single, serious occurrence of conduct, or a single, serious comment,
display, action or gesture, that has a lasting, harmful effect on the worker’s
health or safety.
(3) For the purpose of subsection (1), harassment does not include reasonable action
taken by an employer or supervisor relating to the management and direction of the workers or of
the work site.
(4) An employer shall, in consultation with the Committee or representative, or, if no
Committee or representative is available, the workers, develop and implement a written policy
that includes
(a) a definition of harassment that is consistent with subsections (1), (2) and
(3);
(b) a statement that each worker is entitled to work free of harassment;
(c) a commitment that the employer will make every reasonable effort to
ensure that workers are not subjected to harassment;
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(d) a commitment that the employer will take corrective action respecting any
individual who subjects any worker to harassment;
(e) an explanation of how harassment complaints may be brought to the
attention of the employer;
(f) a statement that the employer will not disclose the name of a complainant
or an alleged harasser or the circumstances relating to the complaint to a
person unless disclosure is
(i) necessary for the purposes of investigating the complaint or taking
corrective action with respect to the complaint, or
(ii) required by law;
(g) a description of the procedure that the employer will follow to inform a
complainant and alleged harasser of the results of an investigation; and
(h) a statement that the employer’s harassment policy is not intended to
discourage or prevent a complainant from exercising other legal rights.
(5) An employer shall make readily available to workers a copy of the policy required
under subsection (4).
Violence
35. (1) In this section, "violence" means attempted, threatened or actual conduct of an
individual that causes or is likely to cause injury, such as a threatening statement or behaviour
that gives a worker a reasonable belief that he or she is at risk of injury. (violence)
(2) For the purposes of this section, work sites where violence may reasonably be
expected to occur include work sites that provide the following services or activities:
(a) services provided by health care facilities as defined in section 463;
(b) pharmaceutical dispensing services;
(c) educational services;
(d) police services;
(e) corrections services;
(f) other law enforcement services;
(g) security services;
(h) crisis intervention and counselling services;
(i) financial services;
(j) the sale of alcoholic beverages or the provision of premises for the
consumption of alcoholic beverages;
(k) taxi services;
(l) transit services.
(3) An employer shall, at a work site where violence has occurred or could reasonably be
expected to occur, after consultation with the Committee or representative or, if no Committee or
representative is available, the workers, develop and implement a written policy to deal with
potential violence.
(4) The policy required by subsection (3) must be in writing and must include
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(a) a commitment that the employer will eliminate or reduce the risk of
violence at the work site;
(b) the identification of the work site or work sites where violence has
occurred or could reasonably be expected to occur;
(c) the identification of staff positions at the work site that were, or could
reasonably be expected to be, exposed to violence;
(d) the procedure to be followed by the employer to inform workers of the
nature and extent of risk from violence, including information in the
employer’s possession about the risk of violence from individuals who
have a history of violent behaviour and whom workers are likely to
encounter in the course of their work, unless the disclosure is prohibited
by law;
(e) the actions the employer will take to eliminate or reduce the risk of
violence, including the use of personal protective equipment,
administrative arrangements and engineering controls;
(f) the procedure to be followed by a worker who is exposed to violence to
report the incident to the employer;
(g) the procedure the employer will follow to document and investigate
violence reported under paragraph (f);
(h) a recommendation that a worker who has been exposed to violence consult
the worker’s physician for treatment or referral for post-incident
counselling;
(i) the employer’s commitment to provide training programs for workers that
include
(i) the means to recognize potentially violent situations,
(ii) procedures, work practices, administrative arrangements and
engineering controls to eliminate or reduce the risk of violence to
workers,
(iii) the appropriate responses of workers to violence, including how to
obtain assistance, and
(iv) procedures for reporting violence.
(5) If a worker receives treatment or counselling referred to in paragraph (4)(h) or attends
a training program referred to in paragraph (4)(i), the employer shall ensure that the time spent
receiving treatment or counselling or attending training is credited to the worker as time at work,
and that the worker does not lose pay or benefits with respect to that time.
(6) An employer shall make a copy of the policy required under subsection (3) readily
available to workers.
(7) An employer shall ensure that the policy required under subsection (3) is reviewed
and, if necessary, revised not less than once every three years or whenever there is a change of
circumstances that could affect the health or safety of workers.
Late Night Premises
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36. (1) In this section, "late night retail premises" means a work site that is open to the public
between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. for the purposes of making retail sales to
consumers. (établissement de vente au détail de nuit)
(2) An employer of workers at a late night retail premises shall
(a) conduct a work site hazard assessment in accordance with an approved
industry standard; and
(b) review and, if necessary, revise the work site hazard assessment not less
than once every three years and whenever there is a change of
circumstances that could affect the health or safety of workers.
(3) An employer of workers at a late night retail premises shall implement the following
security measures:
(a) the development of written safe cash handling procedures that minimize
the amount of money that is readily accessible to workers in the
establishment;
(b) the use of video cameras that capture key areas in the work site including
cash desks and outdoor gas pumps, if applicable;
(c) the establishment of measures to ensure good visibility into and out of the
premises;
(d) the placement of signs to indicate
(i) the workers’ limited access to cash and valuables, and
(ii) the use of video cameras on the premises.
(4) An employer of workers at a late night retail premises between the hours of 11:00
p.m. and 6:00 a.m. shall
(a) implement a check-in system and a written check-in procedure for the
workers; and
(b) provide a personal emergency transmitter to be worn by the workers that
signals for emergency response when activated.
PART 4
COMMITTEE AND REPRESENTATIVE
Establishment of Committee
37. An employer shall establish a Committee
(a) at a work site where 20 or more workers work or are likely to work for
more than 90 days; or
(b) if so directed by the Chief Safety Officer.
Composition of Committee
38. If an employer is required to establish a Committee, he or she shall ensure that it is
composed of an equal number of
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(a) workers chosen by the workers at the work site, who are representative of
and who shall represent the occupational health and safety concerns of the
workers at the work site; and
(b) individuals chosen by the employer, or by each employer where workers
of two or more employers work at the same work site, to represent the
employer or employers.
Designation of Representative
39. If fewer than 20 workers work at a work site and there is no Committee, each employer
shall designate not less than one worker as the occupational health and safety representative for
the workers.
Names Accessible
40. An employer shall ensure that the name of each member of the Committee or of each
representative is readily accessible to workers at the work site.
Quorum and Certain Votes
41. (1) A quorum consists of one-half of the members of the Committee, if
(a) representatives of both employers and workers are present; and
(b) not less than one-half of the members present represent workers.
(2) Any business of a Committee that is transacted, and any meeting of a Committee that
is held where a quorum is not present is not a valid transaction or meeting.
(3) A decision of the Committee made under subsection 13(5) or (6) of the Act with
respect to a refusal to work must be made by a unanimous vote of members of the Committee
who are present.
(4) If a Committee is unable to make a decision under subsection (3), it shall, as soon as
is reasonably possible, notify and refer the matter to a delegate of the Chief Safety Officer for
investigation.
(5) The delegate of the Chief Safety Officer referred to in subsection (4) must be a safety
officer.
Frequency of Meetings
42. (1) Subject to subsection (2), a Committee shall
(a) hold its first meeting within 14 days after being established;
(b) hold three subsequent meetings not less than once each month; and
(c) after the third subsequent meeting referred to in paragraph (b), hold
regular meetings at intervals not exceeding three months.
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(2) The Chief Safety Officer may require the Committee to meet more frequently than
required under subsection (1) due to any of the following at a work site:
(a) the existence of particular hazards or circumstances;
(b) the complexity of the work carried out;
(c) the number of workers.
Minutes
43. A Committee shall
(a) record minutes of each meeting and keep the minutes on file;
(b) send a copy of the minutes to the Chief Safety Officer, if required by the
Chief Safety Officer; and
(c) post a copy of the minutes at a location that is readily accessible to
workers at the work site.
Co-chairperson
44. (1) At the first meeting of the Committee,
(a) members of the Committee representing workers shall elect a worker co-
chairperson from among their number; and
(b) each employer shall jointly appoint only one employer co-chairperson
from the members of the Committee representing the employers.
(2) A worker co-chairperson shall keep the workers informed of the activities, concerns
and recommendations of the Committee and of any information addressed to the Committee.
(3) An employer co-chairperson shall keep each employer informed of activities,
concerns and recommendations of the Committee and of any information addressed to the
Committee.
(4) An employer shall facilitate the performance of a worker co-chairperson’s duties
during normal work hours by
(a) permitting meetings of workers; or
(b) other means that are appropriate in the circumstances.
Special Meetings
45. Either co-chairperson may call a special meeting of the Committee to deal with urgent
concerns, imminent dangers to health or safety, investigations of accidents causing serious bodily
injury or dangerous occurrences, or refusals to work under section 13 of the Act.
Meetings of Employers and Representatives
46. (1) If a representative is designated for a work site, each employer shall meet with the
representative regularly to discuss health and safety matters.
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(2) A representative may call a special meeting with an employer to deal with urgent
concerns, imminent dangers to health and safety or investigations of accidents causing serious
bodily injury or of dangerous occurrences.
Opportunity for Necessary Activities
47. (1) An employer shall ensure that
(a) the Committee or representative is allowed to examine any log book,
inspection report or other record that the employer is required to keep at
the work site under the Act or these regulations;
(b) each member of the Committee or a representative has reasonable
opportunity, during normal working hours and without loss of pay or
benefits, to receive and investigate concerns, to inform workers of the
provisions of the Act or regulations made under the Act, or to conduct
other business necessary for the functioning of the Committee or
representative;
(c) the members of the Committee have reasonable opportunity to hold a
special meeting under section 45 at any time; and
(d) the representative has reasonable opportunity to hold a special meeting
under subsection 46(2) at any time.
(2) An employer shall ensure that each member of the Committee or a representative who
participates in a regular meeting held under subsection 42 or subsection 46(1) or in a special
meeting held under section 45 or subsection 46(2), does not lose any pay or benefits as a result of
that participation.
Meetings Called by Safety Officer
48. A safety officer may meet with the Committee or with the representative for the purpose
of
(a) ensuring the proper functioning of the Committee or representative;
(b) providing information to the Committee or representative; or
(c) providing education concerning occupational health or safety to the
Committee or representative.
Duty to Inspect Work Site
49. An employer shall ensure that the Committee or representative
(a) performs an inspection of the work site not less than once every three
months; and
(b) submits a written report of each inspection to the employer.
Representation During Inspection or Investigation
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50. If a safety officer inspects a work site or investigates an accident at a work site, he or she
may require a Committee member or representative to be present at the inspection or
investigation.
Training of Committee Members and Representative
51. (1) If a Committee is established at a work site, the employer shall ensure that the co-
chairpersons of the Committee receive training respecting the duties and functions of the
Committee.
(2) If a representative is designated at a work site, the employer shall ensure that the
representative receives training respecting the duties and functions of the representative.
(3) If a member of a Committee or a representative attends a training program, seminar or
course of instruction on health and safety matters conducted or provided by the Commission or
by an approved training agency, the employer shall credit the member or representative’s
attendance as time at work and ensure that he or she loses no pay or benefits as a result of that
attendance.
Replies by Employer
52. An employer shall, as soon as is reasonably possible after receiving a recommendation
made by a Committee or representative, reply in writing to the Committee or representative with
a response to the recommendation.
Communication by Safety Officer
53. (1) In this section, "communication" includes any order, notice or report.
(communication)
(2) An employer who receives a written communication from a safety officer shall make
the communication readily available to workers for not less than 30 days after the date of
receiving it.
(3) If a safety officer issues a written communication to an employer relating to the health
and safety of workers, the employer shall ensure that a copy of the communication is sent to the
Committee or representative.
PART 5
FIRST AID
Interpretation
54. In this Part,
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"close" means, in relation to a work site, a work site no more than 30 minutes’ travel time from a
hospital or medical facility under normal travel conditions using available means of
transportation; (rapproché)
"distant" means, in relation to a work site, a work site that is between 30 minutes’ and two hours’
travel time from a hospital or medical facility under normal travel conditions using available
means of transportation; (éloigné)
"medical facility" means a medical clinic or office where a medical professional is readily
available. (installation médicale)
Application
55. This Part does not apply to
(a) a hospital, medical clinic, medical professional’s office, nursing home or
other health care facility as defined in section 463, where a medical
professional is readily available; or
(b) a close work site at which the work performed is entirely of an
administrative, professional or clerical nature that does not require
substantial physical exertion or exposure to potentially hazardous
conditions, work processes or substances.
Provision of First Aid
56. Subject to section 57, an employer shall
(a) provide the first aid attendants, supplies, equipment, facilities and
transportation required by this Part to render prompt and appropriate first
aid to workers at a work site;
(b) review the provisions of this Part in consultation with the Committee or
representative or, if there is no Committee or representative available, the
workers;
(c) if the provisions of this Part are not adequate to meet a specific hazard at a
work site, provide additional first aid attendants, supplies, equipment and
facilities that are appropriate for the hazard; and
(d) ensure that, where a worker could be entrapped or incapacitated in a
situation that could be dangerous to an individual involved in the rescue
operation,
(i) an effective written procedure for the rescue of the worker is
developed, and
(ii) suitable first aid attendants and rescue equipment are provided.
Multiple Employers
57. (1) If there are multiple employers at a work site,
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(a) the employers may agree in writing to provide collectively the first aid
attendants, supplies, equipment, facilities and transportation for injured
workers required by this Part; or
(b) a safety officer may require the employers to provide collectively the first
aid attendants, supplies, equipment, facilities and transportation for injured
workers required by this Part.
(2) If subsection (1) applies, the total number of workers of all employers at the work site
is deemed to be the number of workers at the work site.
First Aid Attendants
58. (1) An employer shall provide the first aid attendants and supplies as summarized in
Schedule G for
(a) the distance of the work site to the nearest medical facility; and
(b) the number of workers at the work site at any one time.
(2) An employer shall ensure that a first aid attendant required by these regulations has
(a) a Level 1 qualification as set out in Schedule A; or
(b) a Level 2 qualification as set out in Schedule B.
(3) If rescue personnel are required by these regulations to be provided at a work site, the
employer shall ensure that not less than one first aid attendant with a Level 1 qualification is
readily available during working hours, in addition to what is required under subsection (1).
(4) Despite any other provision of this Part, if an employer provides lodging for workers
at or near a distant or isolated work site, the employer shall provide the first aid attendants,
supplies, equipment and facilities set out in Schedules G, H, I and J based on the total number of
workers at or near the work site, whether or not the workers are all working at any one time.
(5) An employer shall
(a) allow a first aid attendant and any other worker that the first aid attendant
needs for assistance, to provide prompt and adequate first aid to a worker
who has been injured or taken ill; and
(b) ensure that the first aid attendant and any other worker assisting the first
aid attendant have adequate time, with no loss of pay or benefits, to
provide first aid.
Certificates
59. (1) A certificate issued by an approved agency is not valid for the purposes of this Part,
unless the certificate specifies a level of qualification and an expiry date.
(2) A certificate referred to in subsection (1) must indicate an expiry date that is not more
than three years from its date of issue.
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First Aid Station
60. (1) An employer shall, at each work site, provide and maintain a readily accessible first
aid station that contains
(a) a first aid box containing the supplies and equipment set out in Schedule
H;
(b) a suitable first aid manual; and
(c) any other supplies and equipment required by these regulations.
(2) An employer shall ensure that
(a) the location of a first aid station is clearly and conspicuously identified;
and
(b) at each first aid station, an appropriate emergency procedure is
prominently displayed that includes
(i) an emergency telephone number list and other instructions for
reaching the nearest fire, police, ambulance, hospital or other
appropriate service, and
(ii) any written rescue procedure required by subparagraph 56(d)(i).
First Aid Room
61. If there are likely to be 100 or more workers working at a distant or isolated work site at
any one time, an employer shall provide a first aid room that
(a) is of adequate size, is clean and is provided with adequate lighting,
ventilation and heating;
(b) is equipped with
(i) a permanently installed sink, with hot and cold water,
(ii) the first aid supplies, documents and equipment required by this
Part, and
(iii) a cot or bed with pillows;
(c) is under the charge of a first aid attendant with the qualifications required
by this Part, who is readily available to provide first aid; and
(d) is used exclusively for the purposes of administering first aid.
First Aid Register
62. An employer shall ensure that
(a) each first aid station and first aid room is provided with a first aid register;
(b) the particulars of first aid treatments administered or cases referred to
medical attention are recorded in the first aid register;
(c) the first aid register is readily available for inspection by the Committee or
representative; and
(d) a first aid register that is no longer in use is retained for a period of not
less than three years after the day on which the register ceased to be used.
Workers Being Transported
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63. If workers are being transported by an employer from a distant or isolated work site to a
first aid station, medical clinic, medical professional’s office, hospital or other health care facility
as defined in section 463, the employer shall provide a first aid box that contains the supplies and
equipment set out in Schedule H and that is readily available to the workers being transported.
First Aid Supplies and Equipment
64. (1) An employer shall ensure that
(a) first aid supplies and equipment are protected and kept in a clean and dry
state; and
(b) no supplies, equipment or materials other than supplies and equipment for
first aid are kept in the first aid box.
(2) An employer shall, at a work site where a first aid attendant is required under section
58, provide additional supplies and equipment set out in
(a) Schedule I, if the first aid attendant requires a Level 1 qualification; or
(b) Schedule J, if the first aid attendant requires a Level 2 qualification.
(3) At a distant or isolated work site, an employer shall provide and make readily
accessible to workers two blankets, a stretcher and splints for upper and lower limbs.
Transportation of Injured Workers
65. (1) An employer shall ensure that a means of transportation for injured workers to a
medical facility or hospital is available.
(2) The following meet the requirements of subsection (1):
(a) an ambulance service that is within 30 minutes’ travel time from the
ambulance base to the work site under normal travel conditions;
(b) a suitable means of transportation, having regard to the distance to be
travelled and the hazards to which workers are exposed, that affords
protection against the weather and is equipped, if reasonably possible,
with a means of communication that permits contact with the medical
facility or hospital to which the injured worker is being transported and
with the work site.
(3) If a stretcher is required under subsection 64(3), an employer shall ensure that the
means of transportation provided under paragraph (2)(b) is capable of accommodating and
securing an occupied stretcher.
(4) An employer shall provide a means of communication to summon the transportation
required by subsection (1).
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(5) If a worker is seriously injured or, in the opinion of a first aid attendant needs to be
accompanied during transportation, an employer shall ensure that the worker is accompanied by
a first aid attendant during transportation.
Asphyxiation and Poisoning
66. If a worker is at risk of asphyxiation or poisoning, the employer shall ensure that
reasonable emergency arrangements are made, prior to commencement of the work, for the
rescue of the worker and for the prompt provision of antidotes, supportive measures, first aid,
medical attention and any other arrangements that are appropriate to eliminate or reduce the risk
to the health and safety of the worker.
Additional Provisions
67. A safety officer may require an employer to take additional measures beyond what is
required in this Part for first aid and emergency arrangements at a work site to be adequate if, in
the opinion of the safety officer, first aid and emergency arrangements at a work site are
inadequate.
PART 6
GENERAL HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Sanitation
68. (1) An employer shall, to the extent that is reasonably possible, ensure that a work site is
sanitary and kept clean.
(2) If a worker may be exposed to refuse, spills or waste materials that could endanger
the worker, an employer shall ensure that the refuse, spill or waste material is removed by a
suitable method from the work site as soon as is reasonably possible.
Ventilation and Air Supply
69. An employer shall
(a) ensure the adequate ventilation of a work site; and
(b) to the extent that is reasonably possible, render harmless, and prevent the
accumulation of, any contaminants or impurities in the air by providing an
adequate supply of clean and wholesome air and maintaining its
circulation throughout the work site.
Mechanical Ventilation
70. (1) An employer shall
(a) provide a mechanical ventilation system at a work site that is sufficient
and suitable to protect workers against inhalation of a contaminant and to
prevent accumulation of the contaminant; and
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(b) ensure that the mechanical ventilation system is maintained and properly
used, if any work, activity or process at the work site gives off
(i) a dust, fume, gas, mist, aerosol, vapour or other airborne
contaminant that is hazardous to workers, or
(ii) substantial quantities of contaminants of any kind.
(2) An employer who provides a mechanical ventilation system at a work site, whether
required by subsection (1) or not, shall ensure that the system provides sufficient fresh and
tempered air to replace the air exhausted by ventilation.
(3) An employer shall, to the extent that is reasonably possible, ensure that a mechanical
ventilation system required by subsection (1)
(a) includes local exhaust ventilation that is installed and maintained at or
near the point of origin of the contaminant so as to effectively prevent the
contaminant from entering the air of the work site; and
(b) is equipped with a device that will provide a warning to workers when the
system is not working effectively.
(4) An employer shall ensure that contaminants removed by a mechanical ventilation
system under this section are
(a) exhausted clear of the work site; and
(b) if reasonably possible, prevented from entering the work site.
(5) An employer shall ensure that effective provision is made for the immediate
protection of workers in the event of failure of a mechanical ventilation system required by
subsection (1).
(6) If an air cleaning system is used to clean recirculated air, an employer shall ensure
that the air cleaning system is designed, installed and maintained to remove particulate and
gaseous contaminants at a rate that is sufficient to protect the health and safety of workers.
Cleaning and Maintaining Ventilation Systems
71. (1) An employer shall ensure that
(a) a mechanical ventilation system, including any humidifying equipment, is
constructed and maintained to minimize the growth and dissemination of
micro-organisms, insects and mites through the ventilation system; and
(b) if reasonably possible, the components of a mechanical ventilation system
are readily accessible for cleaning and inspection.
(2) An employer shall ensure that a competent individual inspects and maintains all parts
of a mechanical ventilation system, cleans all louvres and replaces or adequately cleans all filters
at intervals sufficient to ensure the effective operation of the system.
(3) An employer shall keep ventilation openings free of obstructions and sources of
contamination.
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(4) An employer shall ensure that a record of all inspections, maintenance and cleaning of
a mechanical ventilation system required by this section
(a) is made by the competent individual who performs the work; and
(b) is readily available for examination by the Committee or representative or,
if there is no Committee or representative available, the workers.
Space
72. An employer shall ensure that a work site is not overcrowded to a degree that could
endanger workers.
Lighting
73. (1) While workers are present at a work site, an employer shall provide lighting that is
sufficient to protect the health and safety of workers and suitable for the work to be done at the
work site.
(2) An employer shall ensure that the illuminance of all parts of a work site where a
worker could work is not less than 50 lux.
(3) If a failure of the regular lighting system at a work site could endanger the health or
safety of workers, an employer shall provide appropriate emergency lighting of not less than 50
lux for the work site.
(4) An employer shall ensure that
(a) light fixtures, windows and skylights providing light for work are, if
reasonably possible,
(i) kept clean, and
(ii) free from obstruction, other than for special treatment of light
fixtures, windows or skylights to reduce heat or glare; and
(b) artificial light sources and reflective surfaces are positioned, screened or
provided with a shade, if reasonably possible, to prevent glare or the
formation of shadows that cause discomfort.
Thermal Conditions
74. (1) Subject to subsection (3), at an indoor work site, an employer shall provide and
maintain thermal conditions, including air temperature, radiant temperature, humidity and air
movement, that
(a) are appropriate to the nature of the work performed;
(b) provide effective protection for the health and safety of workers; and
(c) provide reasonable thermal comfort for workers.
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(2) If the thermal environment at an indoor work site is likely to be a health or safety
concern to workers, an employer shall provide and maintain an appropriate and suitably located
instrument for measuring the thermal conditions.
(3) If it is not reasonably possible to control thermal conditions or if work is being
performed outdoors, an employer shall provide and maintain measures for
(a) the effective protection of the health and safety of workers; and
(b) the reasonable thermal comfort of workers.
(4) If a worker is required or permitted to work in thermal conditions that are different
from those associated with the worker’s normal duties, an employer shall provide and require the
worker to use suitable clothing or other personal protective equipment necessary to protect the
health and safety of the worker.
Toilet Facilities
75. (1) An employer shall, to the extent that is reasonably possible, ensure that suitable and
readily accessible toilet facilities for workers
(a) are provided at a work site, maintained and kept clean;
(b) are sufficient in number for the number of workers at the work site at any
one time; and
(c) have adequate provision for privacy, heat, light and ventilation.
(2) Subject to subsections (3) to (5), the minimum number of toilet facilities required
under subsection (1) is set out in Schedule K.
(3) If toilet facilities are likely to be used by individuals other than workers, an employer
shall provide additional toilets in a number that is proportionate to the number set out in
Schedule K and, if use by those other individuals is substantial and frequent, the employer shall
provide separate toilet facilities for those other individuals.
(4) If there are more than 10 workers and both male and female workers who work at a
work site, an employer shall provide separate toilet facilities for workers of each sex in numbers
that are proportionate to the numbers of male and female workers present.
(5) If more than 100 male workers work or are likely to work on a shift and the Chief
Safety Officer is satisfied that sufficient urinal accommodations are provided, he or she may
reduce the minimum number of toilet facilities set out in Schedule K.
(6) An employer shall ensure that each toilet facility required by this section
(a) is used exclusively for the purposes for which the facility is designed;
(b) is free from any obstacle or obstruction that could prevent the facility from
being used;
(c) is kept free from vermin;
(d) is supplied with toilet tissue and with easily cleanable, covered receptacles
for waste materials; and
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(e) other than in the case of a urinal, is equipped with an individual
compartment and a door that can be locked from the inside.
Personal Washing
76. (1) An employer shall provide and maintain for the use of workers, suitable facilities for
personal washing that
(a) are located near each toilet at a work site;
(b) have a supply of clean hot and cold water or warm water, soap and clean
towels or other suitable means of cleaning and drying;
(c) have an easily cleanable, covered receptacle for waste materials;
(d) are adequately heated, ventilated and lighted; and
(e) are kept in a clean and neat condition.
(2) Water used in personal washing under subsection (1) must be potable.
Clothing
77. (1) Subject to subsection (2), an employer shall provide at a work site and maintain for
the use of workers clean, appropriately located and suitable accommodation for street clothing
that is not worn at work and for clothing worn at work.
(2) If street clothing not worn at work is likely to become wet, dirty or contaminated from
being kept in the same accommodation as clothing worn at work, the accommodation for street
clothing must be separate from the accommodation provided for clothing worn at work.
(3) If a worker’s work clothing or skin is likely to be contaminated by hazardous
substances, an employer shall
(a) provide protective clothing and head covers appropriate to the work and
hazard;
(b) provide a suitable changing area; and
(c) ensure that protective clothing and head covers are handled and cleaned or
disposed of in a manner that will prevent worker exposure to the
hazardous substances.
Change and Shower Facilities
78. If a worker’s skin is likely to be contaminated by harmful substances as part of a regular
work process at a work site, an employer shall
(a) if reasonably possible, provide and maintain suitable, adequate and clean
change and shower facilities; and
(b) allow sufficient time, during normal working hours without loss of pay or
benefits, for the worker to use the change and shower facilities.
Eating Areas
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79. (1) An employer shall provide a sufficient number of suitable areas that are kept clean,
dry, thermally comfortable and reasonably quiet for workers to eat and drink during work breaks.
(2) If substances used at a work site are likely to soil or otherwise contaminate a worker’s
person, clothing or food, the employer shall provide an eating area that is separate from the work
site and close to washing facilities.
Drinking Water
80. (1) An employer shall provide, at suitable points that are readily accessible to workers, an
adequate supply of clean and safe drinking water.
(2) If the supply of drinking water at a work site is not piped, an employer shall
(a) provide drinking water in suitable covered containers;
(b) protect the drinking water from contamination; and
(c) change the drinking water as often as necessary to ensure that it is clean
and safe to drink.
(3) An employer shall provide an adequate supply of clean cups near each supply of
drinking water unless the drinking water is supplied in an upward jet.
(4) If it is necessary to identify a supply of drinking water, an employer shall clearly
indicate the supply of drinking water with a sign that says "Drinking Water" or by another visual
means.
(5) If there is a supply of water at a work site that is unfit for drinking, an employer shall
clearly indicate the supply of water with a permanently fixed, durable sign that says "Unfit for
Drinking" or by another visual means.
Smoking
81. (1) Subject to any other enactment, an employer shall control the exposure of workers to
environmental tobacco smoke at a work site.
(2) If a work site is an enclosed work site, the employer shall prohibit smoking at the
enclosed work site.
(3) An employer may permit smoking outside an enclosed work site in a designated
smoking area that is
(a) not less than 3 m outside the radius of an entrance to or exit from the
enclosed work site;
(b) owned or under the control of the employer; and
(c) clearly identified by signs or other effective means.
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(4) An employer may permit smoking in a designated structure outside an enclosed work
site, within a 3 m radius of an entrance to or exit from the enclosed work site, if smoke from the
structure does not come into contact with workers entering or leaving the enclosed work site.
(5) If an individual resides at an enclosed work site, the employer may permit smoking
within the enclosed work site in a designated smoking area, if the area
(a) is used exclusively as a smoking area;
(b) is structurally separated from other areas of the enclosed work site;
(c) is constructed so that smoke does not enter other areas of the enclosed
work site;
(d) has, if necessary to prevent smoke from entering other areas of the
enclosed work site, a separate, non-recirculating exhaust ventilation
system that
(i) meets the requirements for a smoking lounge specified in
ASHRAE Standard 62-2001, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air
Quality, as amended from time to time, and
(ii) discharges directly to the outdoors; and
(e) is clearly identified by signs posted at the entrance to each designated
smoking area that are clearly visible to individuals entering the area.
(6) An employer shall not require a worker to enter an enclosed work site where smoking
occurs, unless
(a) the worker must enter to respond to circumstances that could endanger
life, health or property;
(b) the worker must enter to investigate illegal activity; or
(c) smoke is effectively removed from the enclosed work site before the
worker enters it.
Lifting and Handling Loads
82. (1) An employer shall ensure that, if reasonably possible, suitable equipment is provided
and used for the handling of heavy or awkward loads.
(2) If the use of equipment under subsection (1) is not reasonably possible, an employer
shall make reasonable efforts to adapt heavy or awkward loads to facilitate lifting, holding or
transporting by workers or to otherwise minimize the manual handling required.
(3) An employer shall ensure that a worker does not engage in the manual lifting, holding
or transporting of a load that, by reason of its weight, size or shape, or by any combination of
these or by reason of the frequency, speed or manner in which the load is lifted, held or
transported, is likely to be injurious to the worker.
(4) An employer shall ensure that a worker who engages in the lifting, holding or
transporting of loads receives appropriate training in safe methods of lifting, holding and
transporting of those loads.
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Standing
83. (1) If a worker is required to stand for long periods in the course of his or her work, an
employer shall provide adequate anti-fatigue mats, footrests or other suitable devices to give
relief to the worker.
(2) If wet processes are used at a work site, an employer shall ensure that reasonable
drainage is maintained and that false floors, platforms, mats or other dry standing places ar